HC Deb 19 January 1995 vol 252 cc626-7W
Mr. Norman Hogg

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security when he will respond to the report of the Fifth report of the Social Security Committee, Session 1993–94, HC 470, on the operation of the Child Support Act 1991; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Burt

We have considered carefully the recent report of the Social Security Select Committee and my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State will make an announcement shortly.

Mr. Norman Hogg

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security when he expects to receive the report of the Parliamentary Commissioner for Administration on the operations of the Child Support Agency; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Burt

I have received the report today, and I am considering it carefully. While I am disappointed that the agency has not met the standards of efficiency and administration it would have wished, I note that the ombudsman recognises that steps have been taken in all cases he investigated to avoid a repetition of errors. Measures to improve quality, accuracy and customer service will be an important component of my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State's response to the Social Security Select Committee.